Dual-Language Immersion Programs
About the Intervention
Dual-language immersion programs provide native English speakers and English learners with general academic instruction in two languages from kindergarten onward. In Portland Public Schools, the programs operate in 11 elementary schools, 4 middle schools, and 5 high schools, offering instruction in Spanish, Mandarin, Japanese, and Russian. Two-way programs follow a 90/10 model (90% partner language in kindergarten, decreasing by 10 percentage points per grade), while one-way programs follow a 50/50 model in elementary grades. Students are admitted through a district-wide lottery system. The study tracks seven cohorts of lottery applicants from kindergarten through eighth grade, examining effects on reading, mathematics, and science test scores, as well as English learner reclassification.
Statistical Findings
Positive effect: on reading in fifth grade
Positive effect: on reading in eighth grade
No effect: on mathematics in most grades
No effect: on science
Positive effect: on English learner reclassification in sixth grade
Positive effect: on English learner reclassification in seventh grade
More Intervention Details
Focus Areas
English LearnersPrograms & Services
Bilingual Education Program, English as a Second Language (ESL) ProgramDelivery Methods
Face-to-FaceDisability Support
N/ATarget Groups
Student(s)Citation
Jennifer, L., Jennifer L., S., Michael, B., Robert O., S., Susan, B., Trey, M. & Zamarro, G. (2017). Effects of Dual-Language Immersion Programs on Student Achievement: Evidence from Lottery Data (EJ1155308). ERIC. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1155308.pdf.
Study Demographics
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Participant Race
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Participant Gender
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Other Participant Characteristics
Geographical Setting
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